You thought you left breakouts behind in your teenage years, but you’re still getting acne as an adult. Though it can be frustrating and surprising that you’re still dealing with breakouts, adult acne is actually fairly common. According to the American Academy of Dermatology Association, “some adults continue to get acne well into their 30s, 40s, and even 50s, [and is] common among women going through menopause.” This guide will give you a simple, step-by-step skincare routine for adult acne to help keep your skin clear and healthy.
What Causes Adult Acne?
Adult acne commonly shows up along the lower face, especially on the chin and jawline. Unlike teenage acne which is usually caused by oily skin, adult acne can happen regardless of skin type. Common causes of adult acne include:
- Hormonal Fluctuations⎯Shifts in hormones, whether it’s from your cycle, pregnancy, perimenopause, or stress, can all increase oil production and make pores more prone to being clogged.
- Stress⎯When you're stressed, your body produces more androgens (a type of hormone). These hormones stimulate your oil glands that can cause breakouts.
- Genetics⎯“If one or both of your parents had adult acne, you're more likely to get adult acne too.”
- Diet and Lifestyle⎯What you eat, how many hours of sleep you get, and staying hydrated all have a big impact on your skin’s health.
- Skincare Products⎯Heavy, oil-based products can clog your pores and cause whiteheads and blackheads.
What is the Best Morning Skincare Routine for Adult Acne?
Your morning skincare routine should focus on shielding your skin from environmental stressors.
Step 1: Use a Gentle Cleaner
First, you should wash your face with a gentle and hydrating cleanser. Use lukewarm water and massage the cleanser into your skin in circular motions for about 60 seconds. This gives the ingredients time to work. Pat your skin dry with a clean, soft towel. Avoid rubbing your face so you don’t cause any irritation. Shop our recommended cleansers.
Step 2: Targeted Skincare Products
If you use specific skincare products for active breakouts, apply them right after cleansing. Use a small amount of product and only apply it to the affected areas. Allow it to fully absorb before moving to the next step. Shop our recommended serums.
Step 3: Hydrating Moisturizer
Regardless of your skin type, everyone needs hydration. A hydrating moisturizer helps to maintain your skin's protective barrier because a compromised barrier can't effectively keep out bacteria and irritants. Shop our recommended moisturizers.
Step 4: Sun Protection
Applying SPF every day is non-negotiable because sun exposure can worsen hyperpigmentation (dark spots), and can damage your skin's barrier. Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen as the last step, even if it's cloudy or you’re staying indoors. Shop our recommended sunscreens.
What is the Best Evening Skincare Routine for Adult Acne?
Your evening skincare routine should focus on repair since your skin does most of its regeneration while you sleep, making it easier for active ingredients to penetrate your skin.
Step 1: Double Cleanse
If you wear makeup, doing a double cleanse at night is one of the most effective ways to get your skin really clean after exposing it to environmental stressors. This first step removes makeup, sunscreen, and excess oil on the skin's surface. Follow this with your cleanser. This second cleanse helps clear away any leftover buildup so your skincare products can absorb and work more effectively.
Step 2: Exfoliate
It’s recommended that you exfoliate 2-3 times a week to remove dead skin cells that can clog pores and lead to breakouts. Look for skincare products that have salicylic acid (BHA) and glycolic or lactic acid (AHAs). Learn more about how to safely exfoliate at home.
Step 3: Apply a Serum
Your evening skincare routine is the best time to apply products with active ingredients like serums. Applying a serum on clean skin helps them penetrate more effectively. Shop our recommended serums.
Step 4: Moisturize
Finish your evening skincare routine with a moisturizer. A moisturizer helps seal in the serum’s active ingredients and keeps your skin hydrated while you sleep, helping your skin repair and regenerate.
Schedule a Personalized Adult Acne Skincare Treatment in the Metro DC Area
Our estheticians will create a personalized acne skincare routine that will target your unique skin type and needs. Reserve your skincare consultation today at Sarah Akram Skincare in the Metro DC area so you can have clear and radiant skin.
FAQs
How is adult acne different from teenage acne?
Teen acne is mostly caused by hormonal changes during puberty, which increase oil production. Adult acne is a combination of factors like hormonal fluctuations, stress, lifestyle, and genetics.
Can adult acne be prevented?
While you can’t always prevent breakouts, having a consistent skincare routine, protecting your skin from the sun, and sticking to a healthy lifestyle can reduce flare-ups.
Can diet and lifestyle affect acne?
Certain foods, dehydration, and lack of sleep can impact skin health. Managing stress and following a balanced diet will help keep your skin healthy.
Do makeup and sunscreen affect acne?
Sunscreen protects your skin from sun damage, which can worsen acne and make pores appear larger. Leaving makeup on overnight can clog your pores, trap dirt and oil, and prevent your skin from naturally repairing itself while you sleep. Removing makeup ensures your skin can breathe, absorb skincare products more effectively.
